SANDPOINT -- The people ranged around the boardroom table Monday were gathered for the annual grant awards from the Union Pacific Foundation. Nathan Anderson, the director of public affairs for the foundation was on hand to distribute the awards, which the group confers to nonprofit organizations in communities served by the Union Pacific Railroad.

"There are ways we can help each other, and there are ways we can meet the needs of our communities," said Anderson. "I commend you for the work you're doing."

Local nonprofits receiving UP funding included Boundary County Volunteer Ambulance Service, the Festival at Sandpoint, the city of Ponderay, Trinity Group Homes, SPOT, and the Bonner Community Food Bank.

As Anderson called each organization's representative to the head of the table, he asked what the money was earmarked for.

"We're going to purchase emergency food supplies," said Debbie Love of the food bank. 

"This is going to go for some play equipment on Kootenai Cutoff Road," said Mayor Steve Geiger of Ponderay.

"We're going to really expand our vocational and life skills programs," said Clark Richman of Trinity Group Homes.

"Union Pacific has been such a huge supporter of everything in this community. We really appreciate what you do," said Susan Kiebert of the Local Highway Technical Assistance Council, who hosted the event.

Local organizations interested in applying for a Union Pacific Foundation grant can learn more by visiting up.com/found.

Online applications are available. The application period for next year's awards opens July 1 and closes Aug. 15.